Elevator Pitch: Camille Cosare, Founder of FemeNova Health
Manila/ Venture/ Profiles

Elevator Pitch: Camille Cosare, Founder of Women's Health Startup FemeNova

Camille Cosare Feme Nova Health

It took the COVID-19 pandemic to force the world to seriously contend with the realities of healthcare and the invisible labor of care work, from the gaps and weaknesses of healthcare systems to the struggles of overburdened health workers.

But while many only saw and heard about these realities when pandemic news broke out, Camille Cosare was among those who have lived them ever since she became a nurse.

A child of Cebu City, Camille became a nurse due to her curiosity and passion for the medical field. It was her time working in hospitals and in corporate healthcare that enabled her to fully understand what the vocation truly meant, as well as witness firsthand the gaps that existed in women's healthcare and education that Filipinas struggled with.

All of these compelled Camille to found FemeNova Health, an early-stage startup focused on women's health and menstrual health, with the goal to support, educate, and offer expert solutions to women based on their diverse needs.

As many Filipinas continue to struggle with the taboo surrounding women's health and health services remain inaccessible to many, still, FemeNova Health is here to rise to the challenge.

The Beat Asia had the chance to speak with Camille to know more about her journey from being a nurse to a startup founder, the lessons she's learned along the way in getting FemeNova Health off the ground, and her hopes for women's health and fellow Filipinas who also dream of founding their own startups.

Hello, Camille! First off, please share with us a brief background about yourself.

Hello, everyone. I'm Camille Cosare, a Filipina nurse from Cebu City who advocates for reproductive health. We are establishing FemeNova Health, a healthcare startup dedicated to advancing reproductive health education and services for women in our country.

In this role, I lead our team in developing a comprehensive platform that addresses critical gaps in women's health. FemeNova Health aims to empower women in navigating their reproductive health journey. My clinical experience and entrepreneurial spirit propel me to advocate for comprehensive healthcare solutions for women.

Why did you become a nurse, and what about being a nurse do you think is the most meaningful?

I studied nursing because of my inclination and curiosity in medical topics. This enabled me to help others [with] their healthcare experience[s]. As a nurse, you will witness a lot of vulnerable moments in a person's life — from birth and illness to death. These are precious moments you share with individuals, families, and significant others, and you can touch lives by being there for them in these times.

Before embarking on your startup journey, what was your experience like being a nurse in Cebu?

I have worked in hospitals and corporate settings, engaging in clinical processes within the U.S. healthcare system. Being on the frontline of healthcare, you encounter a multitude of stories and have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through your profession. My experiences as a nurse have inspired me to launch FemeNova Health, with the mission of improving women's access to reproductive healthcare and supporting them on their reproductive health journey.

As a nurse, what were the crucial gaps you witnessed in women's health in the Philippines?

There remains a significant gap in addressing women's health in our country, particularly concerning issues like teenage pregnancies, hormone disorders, and sexually transmitted infections, among others. Women's health can still be a taboo topic here in the Philippines. Due to cultural conservatism, there's a tendency to dismiss our feelings and symptoms, allowing health issues to go unaddressed. It is crucial to break these barriers, educate women on these issues, and encourage them to be proactive in their health journey.

As the founder of FemeNova Health, what is your vision for your startup?

At FemeNova Health, our vision is to create a safe space for women to engage in open conversations about their sexual and reproductive health and to provide them with the necessary services. We aim to empower women to be active participants in their healthcare journey and to bridge the gap in discussing sexual and reproductive health issues.

Women's Health Feminine Hygiene Reproductive Health
@freepik via Website/Freepik

Without revealing too much, can you share with us some of the features, services, and/or content we can look forward to on the FemeNova Health platform?

We are developing an application for Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) specifically designed for young women. This platform enables women to conveniently and privately ask questions about their reproductive health and access essential health services. The app will include a confidential space for users to connect with certified healthcare professionals, providing personalized advice. Our goal is to ensure that women have access to reliable information and support right at their fingertips.

Why the focus on women's health and menstrual health specifically?

Menstruation serves as a valuable indicator of women's health and overall well-being. We firmly believe in the necessity of early education, particularly starting with menstrual health education for young girls. As a young woman, I personally experienced a lack of proper education on menstrual health, and upon researching community perspectives on family planning, it became evident that substantial gaps persist in knowledge about women's health.

Recognizing this need for education and understanding, our startup is committed to improving access to services and enhancing the availability and accessibility of women-friendly reproductive health services. This includes comprehensive counseling, contraception options, and STI testing, with the ultimate goal of achieving a higher utilization rate among Filipinas.

By promoting effective contraceptive use and providing support and guidance, our startup seeks to contribute to the reduction of unintended teenage pregnancies and associated health risks for both young women and their children. Through these initiatives, we aim to empower women with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, fostering a healthier and more informed community.

What was the driving force behind establishing FemeNova Health? What inspired you to pursue this path?

My journey began while working virtually for U.S. healthcare companies, where I witnessed firsthand how they orchestrated the healthcare experience to serve their citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic. Seeing their initiatives to facilitate healthcare access left a lasting impact and fueled my advocacy to contribute to the improvement of women's healthcare.

This passion ultimately led to the creation of FemeNova Health. Our mission is to enhance young women's knowledge and understanding of reproductive health, empowering them to make informed decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive choices. Through our initiatives, we aim to play a pivotal role in positively shaping the healthcare landscape for women and fostering a community where individuals are equipped to make choices that align with their well-being.

FemeNova is the only Philippine startup among the Top 3 finalists in the Unicharm challenge for the ASEAN-Japan Fast Track pitch in Thailand. May you share with us what this experience was like for you?

Pitching our solution in a foreign country, especially in the context of the ASEAN-Japan pitch event, can indeed be overwhelming. Introducing our solution to individuals deeply immersed in technologies, business, and government roles adds a layer of complexity. However, our journey has been immensely insightful.

During our time brainstorming and learning about the market in Thailand and its reproductive health landscape, we discovered the unique challenges and nuances. It was fascinating to observe how reproductive healthcare issues can bear similarities across different countries. We are excited about the prospect of making a positive impact not only locally but also contributing to addressing reproductive health challenges on a broader scale in the ASEAN region.

What has your journey been like so far, beginning with just an idea to trying to garner the right support to turn your startup into a reality?

Despite encountering numerous setbacks, the experience has ultimately shaped us into better founders. We've navigated through challenges, making strategic changes based on insights from stakeholders and active engagement with our target audience. Each setback became a stepping stone, contributing to the continuous evolution and improvement of our solution.

What would you say are the challenges or struggles you've experienced in putting up FemeNova Health? How did you overcome these roadblocks?

In the early stages of our startup, our primary challenges revolved around identifying how to effectively reach our target users and recognizing our unique opportunities. It's not merely about having an idea; being well-informed about the market, understanding the current challenges, and recognizing gaps in care are essential. That’s also the advantage of being a startup: being agile and you iterate [over] a lot of things to find where we can contribute most effectively to the well-being of women in our communities.

What has been the support like so far for FemeNova Health?

We are grateful for the support we've received from women and allies who empathize with the pain points we are addressing in the women's healthcare space. These individuals believe in our mission and have provided us with invaluable feedback. We also received support from a startup incubator, UP Cebu InIT, and programs that help us in developing our product.

What learnings have you had these past couple of months as a startup founder?

We learned from these past couple of months that we need to engage with stakeholders who can help us reach women and find partnership opportunities to cater to reproductive health needs. When you rally behind something that has a social impact, you need to open up conversations and lead others in creating changes in our communities.

In this endeavor of women's health education and empowerment, we can't do this alone and it's important to find belonging with communities to share our stories, and express who we are, and what we represent.

How do you think FemeNova Health would set itself apart in our local startup scene?

Our commitment is to provide a seamless experience for women to navigate their reproductive healthcare journey with confidence and autonomy. We will give women secure and comprehensive support [for] their reproductive health needs through our platform.

We believe that we should empower women to advocate for their healthcare. We also want to contribute to shaping the collective understanding of the support that women need and how women's health affects population health and ultimately economic development in the country.

Women's Health Women's Empowerment
@pikisuperstar via Website/Freepik

Based on your experience as a new founder, what have you observed about the startups we currently have locally? What would you say are the Philippine startup industry's strengths, promises, and areas of improvement?

There are a lot of opportunities for startups here in the Philippines with various and some nuanced problems we encounter in the country. I see promise in creating innovations in the service industry. Filipinos are known to be service-oriented, and we can leverage that strength by integrating innovative solutions to support our workforce and entrepreneurs may it be in tech or healthcare.

Areas of improvement would be creating environments that would support startups, especially in the early stages. Entrepreneurship programs and open innovation hubs can increase the participation and interest in startups [of] both students and those who have the entrepreneurial spirit.

What are your hopes for FemeNova Health in the next six months? How about this 2024?

In the next six months, we are building partnerships to work on the reproductive health services and learning modules for women and the youth. Conduct training programs for healthcare providers, educators, and community leaders to enhance their knowledge and skills in delivering women/ adolescent’s reproductive health services. In [2024], we will collaborate with local stakeholders to foster community support and engagement, reducing the stigma surrounding women’s reproductive health and creating a supportive environment for young people.

Lastly, what advice would you give fellow Filipinas who also want to establish their own startup, whether in women's health or a different area?

At first, you really have to advocate and do everything yourself but as you go along you will find people that will align with your values and mission. We must seek support because other people already have what we need, and others are willing to help. Whether you are delving into tech solutions, brand building, or selling products, Filipinas are full of ingenuity and take pride in our work, and I believe that we can create a lot of great products and services by putting ourselves out there and taking the first step in building our vision to reality.

Keep your eyes peeled for updates from FemeNova Health and its upcoming app by following its Facebook page and bookmarking its website!

Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Elevator Pitch profiles here.

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Manila/ Venture/ Profiles
Can Businesses Be a 'Force for Good'? This Social Enterprise Says Yes
Pandan collection Photo by Che Secillano

Mother and entrepreneur, Cherilyn “Che” Secillano is a superwoman. Known as the lady behind Dwellbeing, Che’s social enterprise stands on three main tenets: providing homes with safe, toxic-free alternatives; empowering vulnerable communities with sustainable livelihoods; and employing a circular business model that is friendly towards the environment.

Cherilyn “Che” Secillano
Cherilyn “Che” Secillano | Courtesy of Cherilyn Secillano

“Dwellbeing started from our own need and problem,” Che revealed. “My son has rhinitis and eczema and during the pandemic, this worsened due to constant hand washing and sanitizing. Our doctor advised us to go for the all-natural route, and this was when the first productlemongrass liquid hand soap – was developed.”

Since then, Dwellbeing has expanded to include sanitizers, dishwashing liquids, shampoo bars, candles, and even accessories.

Soaps are packaged in upcycled bottles
Soaps are packaged in upcycled bottles | Instagram/Dwellbeing

Using Anita Roddick, the founder of The Body Shop, as inspiration, Che developed the business to become a “Force for Good,” ensuring that each item upcycles, empowers, and gives back. “Each of our products is made with upcycled materials,” Che shared. Case in point: soaps are sold in a motley of containers once discarded. Refills are delivered in sanitized wine bottles, while the liquid version is presented in a jug of Tanduay.

“As our business grew, we were fortunate to meet like-minded circular partners who supply [materials] to us,” Che explained. “Restaurants and bars supply us with bottles. Tobi Peanuts has provided us with the discarded peanut sacks that we use for our gift pouches. The retired hotel linens that we upcycle into sleeping masks are from Azzurro Hotel.”

Dwellbeing is a deaf-driven community
Dwellbeing is a deaf-driven community | Instagram/Dwellbeing

Each upcycled product is also expertly created by different local communities that rely on Dwellbeing as a source of livelihood. This empowers vulnerable communities such as people with disabilities (PWDs) and women. “As our business grew, we needed a workforce,” Che shared. “We tapped into the left-behind sector and have now evolved to be a deaf-driven social enterprise. Our team is 100% deaf, including our retail sales team.”

In fact, their research and development process focuses heavily on the community they choose to work with. “For us, the creative process starts with the questions: ‘What can this community make?’ and ‘What are their skills?’ From there, I develop a line centered around what they are good at,” Che explained. “The objective is to make it sustainable, long term for everyone, and not just a one-time transaction.”

Partnering with the NGO Project Pearls – to whom Dwellbeing gives a portion of their gross sales to – Che had created an accessories line with the NGO’s beneficiary nanays in mind. “These ladies used to be garbage collectors but were trained to sew and weave,” she said. “With this skill, we developed an accessories line that includes bags, scarves, and pouches. We want to make this profitable and long-term so they don’t go back to being garbage collectors.”

Dwellbeing has provided 20,000 meals through their collaboration with Project Pearls
Dwellbeing has provided 20,000 meals through their collaboration with Project Pearls | Instagram/Dwellbeing

As of December 2024, Dwellbeing has proudly upcycled over 30,000 bottles and 10,000 papers. Over 20,000 family meals have been donated through their support of Project Pearls’ Hunger Relief operations. They’ve established over ten community livelihood partners who now work to create Dwellbeing’s incredible products.

“The impact that this has had on others has been incredible,” Che said proudly. “We are happy to see others pay [this kind of goodness] it forward, using their businesses as a 'Force for Good.' We are also able to give consumers an option to practice conscious consumerism in their buying habits.”

It's obvious from Dwellbeing’s business model that the social enterprise has put its heart at the forefront of every transaction – and that it is, in fact, possible to do so. For 2025, their goal remains the same: to strengthen and expand this kind of altruistic impact.

“Every year, it has been our goal to double our numbers above,” asserted Che. “That remains true as we work towards hitting the 50k mark both for upcycled bottles and family meals served.”

Dwellbeing is available at Kultura in SM Makati as well as online. For more information, visit their Instagram.

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Manila/ Venture/ Profiles
How Adelina Eugenio Built a Social Media Following of Over 3.5M
Adelina Eugenio x Beat Asia 1 Photo by Adelina Eugenio

Filipinas across the country have found an accomplice in Adelina Eugenio. Her relatable humor and easy-to-follow makeup routines have become a staple for many in her audience, which – might we add – is currently over 3.5 million strong (and growing!).

“It’s still crazy to think I have over 3 million followers on TikTok!” Adelina exclaimed. “Honestly, TikTok feels like the perfect platform for me – it lets me show [people] the real [me].”

Also known as Deng, Adelina is a content creator who’s recently skyrocketed to fame. She came into the social media scene in 2023, posting “get ready with me (GRWM)" videos on her social media page. Before it became a full-time career, Deng recalled that she would film the same kind of content before heading to her classes at university. “From there, I realized I wanted to share more of my life and ideas with a bigger audience,” she said.

A makeup look by Adelina
A makeup look by Adelina | Instagram/Adelina Eugenio

Since then, the content creator has banked on both authenticity and relatability to build her name and community. “Staying true to myself and embracing my unique humor and personality is what really helped me stand out,” she mused. “People can tell when you're real, and it’s so much easier to connect with them that way.”

Of course, consistency is key too. Posting regularly keeps the momentum going, which Deng admitted is helpful when navigating unpredictable algorithms. Today, she’s active on three platforms: TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. And while she is her most authentic self on each one, she revealed that different types of content work differently on each one.

TikTok is all about short, catchy, and fun videos that grab attention right away,” she explained. “On Instagram, I get to showcase more polished content – I can share everything from photos, stories, and reels. It’s a more curated space where I focus on aesthetics and storytelling. Facebook, on the other hand, is where I really focus on building a community. I love interacting with my audience there, whether it's replying to messages or joining discussions.”

Yet, out of all these platforms, Deng finds most of her fan base on TikTok. There, she collaborates with fellow creators such as Zoozoo, who she acknowledges as someone she already follows and admires. She's also filmed content with personalities such as Christian Bautista and Lauren Spencer Smith.

But even on her own, it’s obvious that Deng’s humor – often loud and energetic – is a magnet for viewers. Already knowledgeable about the social media scene, Deng shares that gaining followers – and attention – isn't always easy.

The first three seconds are crucial for grabbing attention,” she shares of Tiktok. “So I always think of a catchy opening hook. For example, I might ask my followers to guess what I’m about to unbox, or even start with an excited scream to show how hyped I am for a product.”

These kinds of tips showcase Deng’s mastery of her platform. And while she acknowledges that luck has had a role in her virality, she knows that proper timing and understanding algorithms are even bigger factors when determining who gets to be under the spotlight – or on someone’s screen.

“That’s why I always emphasize the importance of posting regularly; the frequency helps keep your content visible on people’s feeds. But beyond that, hard work and genuine passion are the real foundation,” she stressed.

Follow Adelina on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok

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Manila/ Venture/ Money
BSP Introduces the Philippines' First Polymer Banknote Series
BSP Introduces the Philippines First Polymer Banknote Series Photo by Facebook/Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the Philippines' central monetary authority, has launched the first Philippine Polymer Banknote Series.

According to BSP, the new, polymer-made banknotes are “smarter, cleaner, and stronger” than the previous version, as they are equipped with “more sophisticated security features, have a smooth and non-absorptive surface, and are more durable than the paper banknotes.”

In a ceremony held in Malacañang on Dec. 19, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized that the polymer banknote series can last up to seven and a half years, five times longer than the paper bills.

BSP also switched the design of the polymer bills to focus more on protected wildlife across the archipelago, contrary to the paper banknotes’ national heroes-centered layout. This move, according to the bank, is to “remind Filipinos of their role as responsible stewards of the country’s natural resources.”

The bank, however, also preserved some notable elements from the paper banknotes. Below are design highlights of each polymer banknote denomination:

  • P1,000 - Philippine eagle and sampaguita flower, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, South Sea pearl, and the T’nalak weave design
  • P500 - Visayan spotted deer and Acanthephippium mantinianum, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, blue-naped parrot, and Southern Philippine weave design
  • P100 - Palawan peacock-pheasant and Ceratocentron fesselii, Mayon Volcano, whale shark, and Bicol Region weave design
  • P50 - Visayan leopard cat and Vidal’s lanutan, Taal Lake, native maliputo fish, and Batangas embroidery design

In a separate press conference last Dec. 20, BSP encouraged the public to get to know the polymer banknote series. “The BSP encourages everyone to get to know the new banknote series — including consumers, cash handlers in banks and other financial institutions, retail stores, public transport operators, and other businesses involved in financial transactions,” said BSP Assistant Governor Mary Anne P. Lim.

The bank also clarified that while the new polymer banknotes will be rolled out, the paper banknotes will remain in circulation.

This type of banknote was first introduced in the country in April 2022 with the launch of the P1,000-peso polymer bill.

Explore the Philippines’ first Philippine Polymer Banknote Series via BSP’s website.

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Manila/ Venture/ Money
Credit Card Whiz Jax Reyes on Making Wiser Financial Decisions
Jax Reyes Exclusive

“There’s nothing wrong with being kuripot (stingy).”

This is the mantra of Filipino millennial content creator, Jax Reyes. Known for his helpful guides on credit cards and discounts, Jax had always been keen on all things about personal finance. Even before he left corporate life, he admits that he was always the finance guy at work, often searching for discounts, credit card deals, and ways to earn reward points and sharing them with his co-workers.

Wanting to help others and share all this knowledge with even more people, Jax began uploading content on YouTube during the pandemic and then on TikTok. His tipid hacks,” ranging from shopping to travel, proved to be helpful to millennials and Gen Zs looking to manage their finances while experiencing the better things in life. Today, the content creator boasts over 300,000 followers on TikTok and more than 55,000 subscribers on YouTube.

In 2022, the credit card whiz co-founded the online community “KasKasan Buddies,” where they share some of the latest credit card promos, guides, and tips on how to save money, among other things. Two years since its creation, the community now has over 750,000 members on Facebook.

“[I thought], if I share it, and more people enjoy it, hindi ba mas masaya ang mundo (wouldn’t the world be happier)? For me, it's always about creating that value for other people in whatever way. And the value that I like to create was maximizing your money, maximizing every peso,” Jax told The Beat Manila.

In an exclusive interview, we caught up with Jax to learn about his own financial journey, along with his best tips on how to make the most out of your money.

The Importance of Starting Young

“I got comfortable using credit cards because early on, my dad was able to give me a supplementary credit card. When we were growing up, he taught us how to manage. It was not really for us to spend, but it was really for us to use it for emergencies,” Jax shared.

According to him, having early exposure to how to use credit cards was what ultimately piqued his interest in personal finance. It also made him more conscious about his spending habits, on what perks he could get with it, among other things.

But more than this early training with credit cards, it was really his own experiences that led him to pay more attention to his personal finances. “I was a young adult. I started earning money, so syempre ang dami nating gusto, ‘di ba (of course we wanted a lot of things, right)? So it was really my mistakes as well, growing up,” he confessed.

To this end, Jax emphasized that starting young, especially when it comes to saving and investing, is vital.

“I always say, sa lahat ng mga content ko (on all my content) about investing, [is that] ‘you have to start early.’ One of my biggest regrets was also not starting that early. If I could have saved or invested more, I would have more right now.”

‘Credit Cards Are Not Your Enemy’

Filipinos would often associate credit cards with debt, but for Jax, it’s all about learning how to use them properly.

“That’s also the reason why I wanted to start creating content [about] credit cards. Because I want to demystify na hindi siya masama, pero kailangan din natin siyang gamitin ng tama (that it is not bad, but we need to use it wisely). We have to learn it the right way.”

On how one should assess if they should be getting a credit card, Jax said that there are three key things to consider: your ability to manage your finances, your commitment to pay your credit card bill on time, and your capability to say “no” to temptations.

@jaxreyes_ VISA OR MASTERCARD? What Credit Card should you get? What Credit Card is better? ✅ Klook Activities - https://bit.ly/Jax-Klook ✅ Klook Hotels - https://bit.ly/JaxKlookHotels (Klook Spotlight Hotel Deals) Save money on your next trip! Use my code JAX5OFF for 5% off your next Klook adventure. Available for Hotels, Adventures, Flights, Food, and so much more!! Use JAXHOTEL to get 8% off hotels with Klook Spotlight Hotel Deals! For hotels get 8% off when you use code JAXHOTEL #travelph #travel #visa #mastercard #creditcardph #fintok #learnitontiktok ♬ original sound - Jax Reyes

The credit limit that you have is not the money that you have. It’s something that’s given to you by the bank because they trust you. If you feel na pera mo ‘yan (that that’s your money), that’s where you’ll go down the rabbit hole and mababaon ka sa utang (be knee-deep in debt),” he added.

Jax also had three things to say on how one should choose the right credit card.

“People would always ask me, ‘What’s the best credit card?’ And I would always say, ‘It depends on you.’ It depends on your lifestyle. The first [thing to do] is ask yourself, ‘Where do I usually spend?’ Is it groceries? Is it traveling? Is it shopping? Iba-iba (It varies).”

The next thing to consider, according to Jax, is the perks one would want in a credit card. “Is it the perks of earning points, or earning cashbacks? [Because they’re] two different things,” he explained.

Lastly, the content creator encourages credit card beginners to look into its features. “Some credit cards would have fees, some won’t have fees, but wala masyadong (not a lot of) features.”

“For me, credit cards have different rewards. Some people like point-earning or miles-earning. Some people, on the other hand, want cashback, kasi ayaw na nilang nag-iisip ng (because they don’t want to think about) ‘What can I claim with my points?’ Gusto nila, pera na lang, ibabawas sa bill every month (They just want cashback to be deducted from their bill every month),” he added.

On the ‘Deserve Ko ‘To’ Mentality

We've all had our own “Deserve Ko ‘To (I Deserve This/These)” moments, wanting to reward ourselves for our hard work with our hard-earned money. But sometimes, things can get out of hand, especially for people who don’t know how to control it.

When asked what he thinks about this issue, Jax had some strong opinions, “I’m okay with the ‘Deserve ko ‘to’ mindset — when it’s budgeted. Minsan, nagde-’Deserve ko ‘to’ ka na lang lagi (Often, you say ‘I deserve this’) and you make it a reason na mangutang ka (to borrow money) just to buy this stuff because you just say na ‘Deserve ko ‘to.’”

On how one could deal with this self-conflict, he said, “Ask yourself first: ‘Is it budgeted?’. If nilaanan mo ng pera (you allocated money for it) like funds mo for your wants, for your needs, then you say, ‘Deserve mo ‘to.’ If not, I don’t think deserve mo siya muna ngayon (you deserve it for now).”

Savings & Investment Tips

Aside from credit cards, the content creator also shared some helpful tips on saving up money.

Out of sight, out of mind” is Jax’s ultimate tip when it comes to saving money. According to him, creating a separate bank account for savings alone is one of the most effective ways to set money aside for unexpected expenses.

“There are a lot of digital banks out there. Why not just create a digital bank [account] specifically for your savings only? I always wanted to push digital banks kasi mataas ‘yung mga interest (because their interest rates are high). You have the GSave, Seabank, [and] Maya. When you put it there, iiwan mo siya (then leave it there), at least tumutubo ‘yung pera mo (your money grows).”

He added, “The more you save, the more you can sleep soundly at night. We don’t want to live a life na lagi nating iniisip (where we always think), ‘Oh my God, do I have enough [money] for tomorrow?’”

With many people, especially the uninitiated, getting into investment scams, Jax also has a few pointers on how one could properly choose where to invest.

“There will always be scams out there. If you want to invest, make sure you understand what you’re getting into. Kung hindi mo siya naiintindihan (If you don’t understand it), don’t. If you don’t have the money to invest, don’t risk your daily money just because you want to invest. And of course, go with the legit platforms.”

There are a lot of ways to spend money. But for Jax, there are a lot of ways to make the most out of it, too. And the very first step is looking into yourself and your budget.

“I know that budgeting seems hard, and sometimes annoying to do. But wala eh (there's no way around it), that’s really step one. You really need to know how much [of your] money goes in and how much goes out. Because if you have a really clear picture kung saan mo ginagastos kadalasan ‘yung pera mo (of where you spend your money often), that’s where you can make slow and small adjustments in your life to be more financially sound and stable.”

Want to get more ‘tipid’ tips and credit card hacks from Jax Reyes? Make sure to follow him on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, subscribe to his YouTube channel, or join the online community KasKasan Buddies. Kaskas wisely!

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Manila/ The Lux/ High-End Fashion
How Andrea Tetangco Uses Social Media to Grow Her Fashion Business
Snapinsta app 311586349 121485470704694 4904953131537325511 n 1080 Photo by Instagram/ Andrea Tetangco

Andrea Tetangco has been in the fashion industry for 17 years now. As such, the fresh-faced designer, has seen the rise and fall of various trends, as well as the advent – and continuous growth – of social media.

Seventeen years ago, we didn’t have social media. Growth was very organic,” she recalls. “We didn’t have that many young designers back then either.”

Today, Andrea has established herself through a namesake atelier that is known for elegant and feminine designs. She makes intricate yet timeless bespoke dresses for brides and event attendees. Through this, she’s had the privilege of dressing some of the most influential women in the country, including actresses and politicians. Yet, she acknowledges there’s a new wave of women today, one that cannot be discounted: the rise of social media influencers.

Marian Rivera in Andrea Tetangco
Marian Rivera in Andrea Tetangco | Instagram | Andrea Tetangco

Crediting content creators as one of the drivers for her new ready-to-wear collection, Andrea says, “We have more influencers now and people see that you can dress up. [The] Majority of people are on social media and they see that it is possible to dress up for things, it is accessible.”

For those curious about Andrea’s ready-to-wear line, it is available at her boutique office in Kirov Tower, at Proscenium Rockwell. Here, a wonderland of beauty awaits: from beaded gowns to ruffled skirts, to bow-top dresses, and feathered capes.

Dubbed “luxury ready-to-wear," Andrea’s designs are truly next level. “I love statement details on timeless silhouettes,” she explains.

A statement piece from Andrea Tetangco
A statement piece from Andrea Tetangco | Instagram | Andrea Tetangco

Though established now, Andrea admits that growing up, she had no idea she would end up as a fashion designer.

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do [when I was young],” she says. “But I know what I wanted to become. I wanted to become successful.”

A born leader, Andrea established her design studio after completing her studies. To this day, she’s never worked under anyone but herself. Her powerful statement pieces embody the “girlboss” she is.

I knew I wanted to lead, even at a young age,” she notes.

A bride celebrates in her Andrea Tetangco gown
A bride celebrates in her Andrea Tetangco gown | Instagram | Andrea Tetangco

Of course, the business and fashion landscape was vastly different in 2007, when Andrea first started. As previously mentioned, social media had yet to fully take off. Back then, the designer had had to rely on word of mouth to gain traction.

“No one trusted me [in the beginning] but I couldn’t give up,” she recalls. “If people don’t believe in you, but you believe in yourself, you’ll find that you’ll [be okay]. You have to believe in yourself first before other people will.”

Now, through social media platforms such as Instagram gaining global prevalence, Andrea has found greater success. She dresses women who have the power to share their experiences with friends and followers. In this way, word of mouth is still the best kind of marketing for fashion designers.

Of course, that doesn’t mean that creativity and a good following are all it takes to run a business. As Andrea has come to realize, learning the technical aspects of management is crucial for designers.

“When you study fashion design, sometimes, business education is lacking. Fashion designers can be proud of their designs, but at the end of the day, it’s still a business. If you want to last, you have to learn, because the DNA of it all is your team, your production, and the data.”

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Manila/ Venture/ Profiles
Sheila Fuentes on Fostering a Holistic Approach to Brand Building
Sheila Fuentes of Studio Naghisa Photo by The Beat Asia

When it comes to business, branding is everything. It’s the armor your business wears — the distinct identity of your brand in the minds of your potential consumers. Over the past decade, digitization has become a driving force behind marketing strategies, but with millions of people online going through thousands of posts every single day from several businesses that may have similar intentions or offerings locally and internationally, it’s a challenge to stand out.

Studio Naghisa Founder Sheila Mae Naghisa Fuentes knows this firsthand as her entire business revolves around creating branding strategies for her clients. After being in the banking industry for a little over a decade, Sheila took her corporate hat off and took the entrepreneurial route to help her fellow business owners.

“Since I started a family, I decided to do my own thing. I think life was really pushing me to really go into business. Even back when I was in the corporate, I've been doing business sidelines. I sold fashion and beauty products. I decided to go full-time just last year,” she shared.

Studio Naghisa is a digital marketing agency that offers branding and web design services for female entrepreneurs. When asked about why and how she started the business, Sheila told us how her skills for marketing were something she discovered while working on an entirely different business beforehand.

Sheila Fuentes, founder of Studio Naghisa
Courtesy of Studio Naghisa

“I had a startup — a sustainable fashion e-commerce platform. We're trying to build that since the pandemic, joining different acceleration programs like IdeaSpace, and then pushing that advocacy to move or to create a movement for the fashion industry and sustainability,” she said. “But it didn’t go well during the pandemic and I decided to stop operations. It wasn’t profitable at all, and there were a lot of challenges back then.”

Sheila then saw an opportunity for freelancing and started as an Instagram manager for a local salon. From there, she began building her skills and learning about branding and website design.

“I realized this is what I am good at and is something I want to help businesses with, especially female entrepreneurs who are really into impact-driven businesses, meaning they're not just building the business for the sake of generating sales, but they want to make a change in the world.”

Empowering Women Leaders Through Strategic Branding

From her start as a freelancer in 2020, Sheila explored the space with vigor, absorbing all that she could learn about marketing through firsthand experience as a social media manager. During that time, she realized that she could do so much more and wanted to be known in the branding space, which gave birth to Studio Naghisa in the later part of that same year.

A business with a niche client target, Studio Naghisa caters to female entrepreneurs, coaches, and visionaries. When asked why she chose this particular group, Sheila replied that it stemmed from a personal reason.

“I'm an entrepreneur and also a mom, so I know the struggles of a female entrepreneur or business owner. Building a business is hard, but when you are a mom or a woman who has other responsibilities to their families for example, which is expected in our society, that puts a lot of pressure on them.”

Sheila mentioned how she had been exposed to gender inequality in the workplace from her previous jobs, which opened her eyes to the underlying problem when it comes to working women.

“I’ve also seen in the past years while working with our startup that a lot of women are now starting their businesses, so there's a big opportunity. Women are risk-takers. They start mission-driven businesses, social enterprises, or profit businesses but with underlying impact as well. That's the trend I'm seeing and as a mother and entrepreneur myself, I decided I want to help people like me.”

Studio Naghisa currently offers web design and social media marketing services. Under web design, you can choose among different platforms like Shopify, WordPress, or Kajabi which Sheila and her team can create for your business. The agency also features signature services like “Lush” — a website-intensive package that aims to launch a website that converts browsers into buyers in just seven days, and “The Powerhouse” which is a brand marketing subscription service that intends to empower your brand and allow you to position yourself online as a credible and trusted leader in your respective industries.

Website Design Sample
Courtesy of Studio Naghisa

Sheila also added that for their social media marketing services, they have three tiers. Tier 1 provides a monthly consultation where they can set up a creative direction for the business and make sure their content is on brand. This caters more to startups and is the most budget-friendly option.

Tier 2 is a full-on service, meaning all the things you need for social media content creation will be on them from strategy market research and creating the actual content to publishing it. This also includes a monthly review.

The more diverse of the offerings is Tier 3, which caters to businesses that are already scaling by providing them with full-service social media marketing. This includes organic posting, paid ads, blog content, and more. This Tier aims to build that omnichannel presence for the brand while also helping it stand out and build authority online.

Studio Naghisa Offers
Courtesy of Studio Naghisa

“A lot of the people or entrepreneurs I’ve worked with, their number one challenge is being seen online, marketing, and branding — like how they can position themselves; [how] to stand out online and make them a top choice in their market,” Sheila said. “That's a common problem that I've seen, and I thought digital marketing could really support them in growing their business and brand online because nowadays that is the new direction. E-commerce, online purchases, and a lot of digital transitions.”

Building Trust with Brands and Learning to Delegate

Having a niche business has its own set of advantages and disadvantages but Sheila sees this more as an opportunity to better connect with her clientele.

“Number one is potential clients can relate to you. We share the same problem even if we have different niches, different markets, we know the [same] struggle. So it's easier to relate to them and get their trust or that initial connection.”

As someone who runs an impact-driven business, Sheila finds it easier to understand her client’s visions and in turn makes her clients feel understood and connected to her more. “I think that's one of our superpowers as well, like our secret sauce. I think that [being impact-driven] is an underlying niche. People can also sense how passionate we are, so that's a plus point.”

Sheila also expressed some of the unique challenges she faces in running the business. “First, the challenge of delegation for founders who are ready to scale. At first, it's challenging to think about getting help, especially for women, like we're used to caring for ourselves, and sometimes it's hard to embrace that masculine side of us to just be the boss or delegate things. Until now I'm still learning to let go of some tasks in order to scale, which I know is important.”

Community meet up
Courtesy of Studio Naghisa

Furthermore, she emphasized how there was one thing she hoped entrepreneurs would talk about more openly, which is the subject of learning how to balance work and life.

“One thing that I want to just share and I hope most founders will be open to talk about it is also taking care of yourself. Navigating your personal life could sometimes affect the business and most of the time when we see failed startups, that's one of the factors why some businesses fail to continue their journey.”

Although still a startup, Studio Naghisa has already accomplished its goals with its clients as shown through the rave reviews and business case studies on their website. It was the best part of running her business, she stated, seeing her clients happy and knowing that their sales improved or how their business was able to revamp their online presence with their support. She also emphasized how her agency is more than just marketing or a transactional process, but provides holistic services to help them build a brand from the ground up.

“Know your customers. Really think about their needs, their wants, and their challenges,” she said when asked about the best lesson she has learned through her journey. “Take note of what they're saying, what they want, what improvements that they want to see. What are the unique desires that they have that your brand can also cater to?”

As for her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, Sheila looked back on the advice she received which she told us still holds true no matter how far you are into your journey of running a business.

Don't limit and stop playing small. Allow yourself to dream big and you will realize how capable you are. From there, you will be able to take bolder actions to make your business bigger. You just got to hold the faith and bet on yourself.”

You can visit Studio Naghisa’s website to learn more about their services, follow them on Facebook, and check out Sheila's Instagram. Sheila also hosts a weekly podcast called, “Her Powerhouse Brand,” where you can tune in for expert insights on strategic brand marketing designed to help you grow a purpose-driven business and scale your impact.

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Manila/ Venture/ Money
What You Need to Know About 13th Month Pay in the Philippines
13th Month Pay Explainer

Year 2025 is just around the corner! But before you welcome a new beginning, why not give yourself a pat on the back for your hard work throughout this year?

But for us employees, what’s better than a pat on the back? Money, of course! Now that the end of the year is near and the holidays are upon us, there’s this one thing that we are looking forward to the most — the 13th month pay. In case you didn’t know, it is the much-anticipated bonus pay for employees, typically given by the end of the year.

For many of us, the 13th month pay isn’t just an extra paycheck — it’s a symbol of hard work paying off, quite literally. But what exactly is 13th month pay, and why is it such a big deal in the country? Let’s break it down.

What is the 13th Month Pay?

Simply put, 13th month pay is a mandatory annual benefit given to all rank-and-file employees in the private sector in the Philippines, regardless of the nature of their employment and how they are paid.

Philippine Peso Stock Image

According to Article 212 of the Labor Code of the Philippines, rank-and-file employees are those who don’t fall under a managerial, leadership, or supervisory position.

We all know that there is no 13th month on the calendar, but why is it called 13th month pay? This is because this bonus is often equivalent to a month’s worth of an employee’s basic salary — just like having an extra month for a year!

How Is It Computed?

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), in its 2024 Workers Statutory and Monetary Benefits Handbook, declares that the 13th month pay amount an employee is entitled to should be equal to the total basic salary earned during the year, divided by 12 months; hence, it should not be less than one-twelfth (1/12) of the total basic salary earned by an employee in a calendar year.

Below is a sample of 13th month pay computation, as seen from the handbook:

Sample Computation of 13th Month Pay
Photo from 2024 Workers Statutory and Monetary Benefits Handbook

An important thing to note, though, is that the computation does not include allowances and additional benefits, such as cash payments for unused leaves, overtime pay, night differential, and holiday pay, among others.

Those who have resigned or have been terminated at any period before the 13th month pay is distributed must also receive a pro-rated payment. For example, if you only worked in a company from January to August of a calendar year, you’ll only receive a total of your basic salary for eight months, divided by 12.

Who are Entitled to a 13th Month Pay?

As mentioned, 13th month pay must be given to all rank-and-file employees of the private sector, whether they are regular, contractual, casual, or probationary, provided they have worked at least a month in the company. This, however, is not mandatory for government employees. In turn, government workers typically receive midyear or year-end bonuses.

Another exemption for 13th month pay is domestic helpers, or “kasambahays.” Don’t fret though, because they are still entitled to other benefits under the Kasambahay Law, also known as Republic Act No. 10361.

Office Stock Image

When Should It be Given to You?

According to DOLE, 13th month pay should be given no later than Dec. 24 every year. However, an employer may opt to give half of the accrued 13th month pay mid-year and the other half on or before the mandated day, depending on the agreement between the employer and employee.

What are 14th Month Pays and Christmas Bonuses?

While 13th month pay is mandatory, 14th month pay and other Christmas bonuses are entirely optional and voluntary. Meaning, it is up to an employer to reward their employees with such benefits. Usually, 14th month pay is computed the same way as 13th month pay, while Christmas bonuses depend on how much an employer wants to give. Some companies even offer a 15th month pay!

Philippine Peso Banknotes
Photo from Website/UNA Tax & Accounting Services

What to Do If You Don’t Receive It

As an employee, it’s important to know your rights. If you’re perfectly qualified for a 13th month pay and you don’t receive it within the deadline, there are legal options to consider.

Law firm Respicio & Co said in an article that employees can file a formal complaint with the DOLE Regional Office which has jurisdiction over their workplace, where mediation between the involved parties will occur. There’s also an option to file a small claims case in court, where you’ll need to gather the necessary documents to prove your claim.

Employers who fail to comply will be subject to penalties, including fines or administrative sanctions, among others.

Whether you’re looking to spend or invest your 13th month pay, it’s important to treat yourself, too, even just a little. After all, it’s Christmas!

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